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Our beginner paddle
JOOLA Essentials Performance Pickleball Paddle
Best for: New players who want a forgiving, all-around paddle.
Why we recommend it
JOOLA pairs a fiberglass face with its 12 mm Response Honeycomb Polymer core, which the company says reduces vibration and enlarges the sweet spot. Its perforated anti-slip ridge grip is intended to keep the handle secure while adding shock absorption.
Good to know: Choose grip size based on your hand, not experience.
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Our beginner court shoe
ASICS GEL-Dedicate 8
Best for: New players who want court-specific lateral support.
Why we recommend it
Synthetic-leather overlays help hold the foot in place while changing direction. ASICS combines a TRUSSTIC support unit with a wrap-up outsole to improve stability while allowing the foot to move freely—useful for the lateral stops and recoveries pickleball asks of footwear.
Good to know: Fit still comes first.
Check price on Amazon (ASICS GEL-Dedicate 8)Balls
Choose Franklin X-40 for your typical outdoor court, or Franklin X-26 for your usual indoor gym or facility. Most beginners need one type, not both.
Outdoor balls
Franklin X-40
Best for: Players whose regular games are outdoors.
Why we recommend it
Franklin’s one-piece, no-seam polyethylene construction is designed to resist outdoor denting and cracking. Its 40 machine-drilled holes create the balanced flight pattern and reliable spin players need when wind and harder outdoor surfaces are part of the game.
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Indoor balls
Franklin X-26
Best for: Players who usually play in gyms or indoor facilities.
Why we recommend it
The X-26 uses a two-piece construction with 26 precisely placed, beveled holes. Franklin says that layout produces a balanced flight pattern, even rotation and reliable spin, giving indoor rallies a more repeatable ball response.
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Optional grip refresh
Wilson Pro Overgrip 3-Pack
Best for: Players who want a thinner, tackier handle refresh.
Why we recommend it
The Pro Overgrip’s thin, high-stretch felt is designed to keep racket feedback natural rather than adding bulk. Its tacky surface and comfortable feel help restore a more secure hand connection when the original grip becomes slick.
Good to know: Replace it when the tack fades.
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Optional protective eyewear
HEAD Impulse Protective Eyewear
Best for: Players who prefer eye protection during close, fast exchanges.
Why we recommend it
HEAD describes the Impulse as combining goggle-style protection with eyeglass-style comfort. That makes it a practical option for close, fast exchanges where you want protection without committing to a full-goggle feel.
Good to know: Use protective eyewear that fits securely.
Check price on Amazon (HEAD Impulse Protective Eyewear)You probably don’t need to buy a pickleball bag.
An existing backpack, gym bag or sports bag works perfectly well. Consider a dedicated bag only if its organization genuinely helps your routine.
Optional dedicated bag
Franklin Sports Pickleball Sling Bag
Best for: Players who want gear organization without a full backpack.
Why we recommend it
Franklin’s triple-pocket layout separates paddles, balls and small essentials, while the large ball pouch and built-in fence hook keep frequently used items accessible at court. An adjustable shoulder strap adds a simple carry option between games.
Check price on Amazon (Franklin Sports Pickleball Sling Bag)